A total of 17 beneficiaries of the Kabale Diocese Orphans and Vulnerable Children Project (KDOVCP) have graduated in various academic disciplines from Kabale University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), marking another milestone in the commitment by Kabale Diocese to supporting the education and empowerment of vulnerable children.
Of the 17 graduates, 16 received their qualifications from Kabale University on Friday, October 30, 2026, while one graduated from Mbarara University of Science and Technology on Thursday, October 29, 2026.
The graduates and their respective qualifications are:
1. Beda Witness – Master of Biomedical Engineering (MUST).
2. Ayebare Bridget – Bachelor of Environmental Health Science.
3. Ayebare Debra – Bachelor of Science with Education.
4. Ahereza Princess – Bachelor of Information Technology.
5. Miwagaba Hillary – Bachelor of Business Administration.
6. Ampumuriza Bonitah – Bachelor of Science with Education.
7. Orikiriza Susan – Bachelor of Arts with Education.
8. Aharizira Suzan – Bachelor of Arts with Education.
9. Namara Phiona – Bachelor of Agribusiness Management.
10. Tukamushaba Costance – Bachelor of Arts with Education.
11. Amutuheire Susan – Bachelor of Science with Education.
12. Tumushime Rogers – Bachelor of Science with Education.
13. Akankunda Sarah – Bachelor of Computer Science.
14. Nimusiima Catherine – Bachelor of Arts with Education.
15. Asinguza Doreen – Bachelor of Science with Education.
16. Ainembabazi Christine – Bachelor of Information Technology.
17. Tumweshengyereze Maria – Diploma in Information Technology.
Speaking during a celebratory gathering organised by the Orphans and Vulnerable Children Project on Friday evening to celebrate the graduates, the Project Manager, Mr. Tumwekwase Evarist, commended them for their resilience, determination and commitment to completing their studies.
He observed that although many beneficiaries had embarked on the academic journey together, not all had managed to reach the finishing line. He therefore congratulated those who persevered through the challenges and successfully attained their qualifications.
“We are proud of you. As you venture into the world of opportunities, be ambassadors of this project and always remember that you remain part of the Kabale Diocese Orphans and Vulnerable Children Project family,” Evarist said.
He further encouraged the graduates to become role models and sources of inspiration to younger beneficiaries, particularly those still pursuing their primary and secondary education, by demonstrating the value of hard work, discipline and perseverance.
Mrs. Jacenta Tinzarwa, a member of the Project’s Oversight Committee also congratulated the graduates and urged them to maintain the spirit of hard work, commitment and generosity.
She encouraged them to actively participate in supporting others and to demonstrate the same love and compassion that Kabale Diocese had shown them throughout their educational journey. She further urged them to remain firm in their Catholic faith and uphold the values instilled in them.
Representing the Office of the Diocesan Education Secretary, Mr. Turyahikahe Willy, who is in charge of Catechism in Schools in Kabale Diocese, advised the graduates not to despise any form of employment but instead approach every opportunity with passion, enthusiasm and dedication.
He noted that no honest job should be considered too small, as every opportunity can serve as a stepping stone to greater achievements and better prospects in life.
Mr. Turyahikahe also cautioned the graduates against compromising their values and personal integrity in the pursuit of employment and success. He particularly urged the female graduates to remain vigilant against exploitation, while encouraging all of them to avoid negative peer groups, alcoholism and other destructive behaviours. He emphasised the importance of discipline, self-respect and making responsible life choices.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Ayebare Bridget a graduate at Kabale University expressed heartfelt appreciation to Kabale Diocese for establishing and sustaining the Orphans and Vulnerable Children Project, which she said had played a significant role in shaping their lives.
She acknowledged the sacrifice made by the Diocese and continued support, which enabled beneficiaries to access education from nursery and primary school through secondary school and ultimately university. She described the project as a life-changing initiative that had given them hope and opportunities they might otherwise not have had.
One of the graduates, Bedda Witness, who obtained a Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering from Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), marked 20 years since joining the Kabale Diocese Orphans and Vulnerable Children Project in 2005.
Reflecting on his journey, he credited the project for transforming his life and opening doors to educational opportunities at St. Maria Goretti Primary School, St. Paul’s Seminary and ultimately MUST. He noted that these were institutions he would never have imagined attending without the intervention and support of the project.
He expressed profound gratitude to the vision bearers and supporters of the initiative, emphasising that although his journey as a beneficiary had come to an end, the impact of the project would remain an indelible part of his life.
He added that the education, skills and knowledge acquired through the programme had equipped him for the future. He expressed hope of building a stable career and family while extending to others the same support, encouragement and opportunities that had transformed his own life.
In a show of gratitude and commitment to giving back, the graduates collectively thanked Rt. Rev. Callist Rubaramira, Bishop Emeritus of Kabale Diocese, who established the Orphans and Vulnerable Children Project in 2003.
They pledged to remain connected to the project and offer support wherever possible to ensure its continuity, enabling more orphaned and vulnerable children to access education and benefit from the opportunities that had transformed their lives.
Their achievement demonstrates the transformative power of education and the lasting impact of the Church’s commitment to nurturing hope and building brighter futures especially among the less privileged.